Sweet Meaning Behind Dec Donnelly's Baby Son's Name As He Announces Birth

Declan Donnelly has shared the adorable name of his newborn son with his followers and it includes a sweet tribute to his best friend and co-presenter Anthony McPartlin.

The 46-year-old surprised fans with the news that his wife Ali Astall had welcomed their second child on Saturday (23 July).

Dec confirmed the happy news in an Instagram post which he shared the following day. The caption revealed that the couple had chosen a very familiar middle name for their new arrival.

Dec and Ali have chosen to give their son the middle name 'Anthony' which he will share with his dad’s long-time pal.

The post includes a picture of the newborn holding onto his dad’s finger while the caption reads: “Shortly before 10am yesterday, 23.7.2022, Ali and I welcomed the arrival of our son, Jack Anthony Alphonsus, a very welcome ray of light. He is wonderful and Isla is beyond excited to be a big sister! D x."

Dec and Ali welcomed their daughter Isla in 2018 and she is now a big sister.

The pair's celebrity friends rushed to the comments to share their well wishes. Love Island host Laura Whitmore wrote: “Delighted for you both! Congrats xx”.

Britain’s Got Talent contestants Woody and Kleiny said: “Congratulations buzzing for you.”

Jamie Oliver also sent a lovely message to Dec and his family in a comment which said: “Congratulations to you all xxxxx”.

Former Saturday Night Takeaway co-presenter Scarlett Moffatt added: “Congratulations. Delighted for you all. Love the Moffatts xx”.

Ant and Dec’s SM:TV co-host Cat Deeley Shared: “That is wonderful news! Congratulations… sending you love.”

While Fearne Cotton sent six heart emojis and commented: “Love you guys. So happy for you. Cannot wait to meet little Jack.”

Long Lost Family presenter Davina McCall sent her congratulatory message in the comments section and added: “Oh!!! That’s absolutely fantastic!!!”

Alan Carr also sent his congratulations and commented: “Sending you so much love.”

The news of Jack’s arrival comes shortly after Dec announced the heartbreaking death of his brother.

Catholic priest Father Dermott Donnelly, who officiated Dec and Ali’s wedding in 2015, died at the age of 55 and was reportedly hospitalised after he collapsed.

Dec shared the devastating news on Twitter. He wrote: “I am heartbroken to tell you that my darling brother Fr Dermott, sadly passed away this afternoon. We are all beyond devastated. Thank you for your messages of sympathy and support, they are appreciated”.